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Why I Want Your Kids to “Misbehave” During Our Family Photo Session

Writer: Jaclyn Kushner PhotographyJaclyn Kushner Photography

Girl in green polka dot dress smiles, holding a stuffed cheetah on a forest path. Sunlit greenery surrounds the peaceful scene.

Yes, You Read That Right—Misbehave!


I know, I know…

this probably sounds completely insane,

but trust me on this one

—I want your kids to “misbehave”

during our session.


I know one of the biggest stressors

for parents (right after figuring out what to wear) is

whether their kids will cooperate. 



You might be thinking:


  • What if my kids don’t listen?

  • What if they’re wild and won’t sit still?

  • Are we just throwing money away if they act up?



And to that, I say:


Let them be themselves. 

That’s where the magic happens.





A young girl in a green polka dot dress joyfully spins on a sunlit forest path, surrounded by greenery and scattered leaves.

Authenticity Over Perfection


When your kids feel free to be themselves

—whether that means belly laughs,

running wild, or getting a little silly

—that’s when we get the good stuff.


I don’t want forced smiles and stiff poses. 

I want the real giggles, the real personalities,

and the moments that make you

look back at your photos

years from now and say,

“That is so them.”





Three girls sit on a wooden bench in a garden. Two wear turquoise dresses; the third, in orange, eats ice cream. They smile in sunlight.

Let Kids Be Kids


Now, am I saying I want complete chaos?

Not exactly. 

But I do want a session

where your kids feel comfortable,

free, and seen for who they are.


The last thing we want is for them to shut down

because they’re being scolded or pressured

to “just smile already.”


Instead, let’s channel their energy into fun,

natural moments

—the kind that lead to real connection.




family photo

Just Let Go


The more you try to get your child

to act a certain way,

the more they’ll

do the opposite

(IYKYK).


Here’s my best advice:


✔️ Relax.

✔️ Laugh.

✔️ Let them have fun.



If we treat the session like a

game instead of a chore,

your kids will be way more into it

—and trust me,

that means better photos

and a more enjoyable experience

for everyone.




laughing family grandparents and grandchildren

Embrace the Chaos


This is your permission slip to just roll with whatever unfolds.


✔️ If your toddler wants to run around?

We’ll chase them.


✔️ If your kids won’t stop making goofy faces?

Let’s capture those giggles.


✔️ If your daughter refuses to wear the shoes you picked out?

It’s okay, let her pick!


The less we stress about “perfection,”

the more beautifully real your photos will be.




So, Are We a Good Fit?


If you’re looking for a photographer who will

go with the flow, embrace the chaos,

and make the session fun

—I’m your girl.


But if you want super-posed,

stiff smiles, and a perfectly behaved bunch,

I might not be the right fit—and that’s totally okay!




Ready to Book Your Session?


Let’s capture the real moments

— the ones filled with love, laughter,

and maybe a little bit of mischief. 😉




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